Many people share a love-hate relationship with their sewing machine, and honestly, I've been there too. Everything seems perfect, you're sewing away, and then chaos strikes. Your machine starts devouring fabric or leaves a tangled mess of thread on your masterpiece. The urge to scream or even toss your machine out the window is real—I get it. In this article, I'll show you 10 simple things you can do to prevent issues and keep your sewing machine working longer and better!
Steps to Prevent Issues with a Sewing Machine
- Make sure the machine is threaded correctly. Even one missed step can cause the machine not to sew correctly.
- Use high-quality sewing machine needles and regularly change the needle.
- Keep your machine clean—both inside and out. For the exterior, use a lint brush or vacuum. Here is a detailed post and video on cleaning a sewing machine.
- Use good quality thread to avoid breakage and excess lint.
- Wind your bobbin carefully and correctly.
- Consult your owner's manual to determine if your machine requires oiling. If unsure, contact a dealer for advice.
- Cover your machine when not in use to protect it from dust and debris.
- Avoid sewing over pins to prevent timing issues.
- Respect your machine's limits—most home machines struggle with heavy fabrics like denim. If the machine is having problems getting over thick seams, slow down and try using a Jean-A-Ma-Jig or Hump Jumper.
- Schedule regular servicing—a tune-up every two years can significantly improve performance. If you sew daily, you must have your machine serviced more frequently.
By following these tips, you'll spend less time dealing with sewing machine woes and more time creating beautiful garments.
LEARN TO SEW OR IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
Do you want to start sewing but need a helping hand with the basics? Our Sewing 101 course has everything you need to start sewing confidently and improve your skills. Be sure to join our free private Facebook group.
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